Elder Associate

About the Role

UP Health System – Portage is seeking an Elder Associate (CNA) to provide basic patient care under the direction of a Registered Nurse in a long‑term care facility (Portage Pointe) with 60 beds. The position is part of a certified Eden Alternative facility that emphasizes a home‑like environment for residents.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic patient care skills under RN direction, demonstrating safe practices.
• Provide general nursing care: position, lift, turn, and use special equipment; assist with bed pan, urinal, or commode.
• Ambulate patients, give bed baths, oral and hair care, change bed linens, and clean/straighten patient rooms.
• Take and accurately record vitals, intake, and output measurements.
• Document care in a timely manner.
• Answer Elder call lights, telephone, and paging system and respond appropriately.

Requirements

• Michigan Nurse Aide (CNA) certification (must be obtained within 4 months of hire).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (available upon hire).
• ServSafe certification required within 6 months of hire.
• Graduate of a program in the discipline.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 1–2 years CNA experience preferred.
• Critical thinking, decisive judgment, and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work in a stressful environment and take appropriate action.
• Proficiency in verbal and written communication.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for professional interaction at all levels.

Benefits

• Multiple levels of medical, dental, and vision coverage for full‑time and part‑time employees.
• Financial protection: life, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity insurance; short‑ and long‑term disability; paid family leave; paid time off.
• Financial & career growth: tuition assistance for higher education and certifications, loan assistance, 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Employee well‑being programs: free gym memberships, virtual care appointments, mental health services, and discount programs.
• Professional development: ongoing learning and career advancement opportunities.
• Sign‑on bonus of $3,000 and $1,000 hot‑job referral bonus available to current staff.

Schedule

0.6–0.9 FTE, evening (15:00–23:00) or night (23:00–07:00) shifts, including weekends (2 days on/4 days off) and occasional Christmas work.

More About UP Health System – Portage Pointe

Portage Pointe is a 60‑bed long‑term care facility serving the Upper Peninsula, regulated by CMS and a member of AHCA and HCAM. The broader UP Health System includes a 36‑bed hospital, specialty services, and a 60‑bed senior living community, serving the region since 1896.